Enjoy the Living History of Hawaii

When you think of Hawaii, you probably think of sparkling beaches, tropical breezes, luaus, and giant waves where world-class surfers test themselves against the big glassy swells.

Hawaii is also a place where history is respected, where a walk through the historic Kailua-Kona and other communities will open your eyes to the colorful history of this Pacific paradise.

Historic Kailua Village

This slice of paradise is located just 15 minutes south of Kona International Airport, and a short stroll from many of the Big Island’s most popular resorts.

The walk is level but wear comfortable shoes and come prepared to spend the day exploring this one-time sleepy fishing village.

Historic Kailua Village is known globally for its shopping, dining, and cultural icons that have been restored and preserved to their natural beauty. This historical destination site is also known for its reasonable accommodations for those staying on a budget.

Start your day trip with a stroll down Ali’i Drive – a main commercial district of the Kailua-Kona region. You’ll discover quaint shops offering traditional Island quilts and jewelry, handcrafted keepsakes that’ll remind you of your time in paradise, and colorful aloha shirts – the traditional garb of island natives.

Save time for a stop at the Ueshima Coffee Corporation for a cup of fresh-brewed Kona coffee, famous the world over. Visit a working Kona Coffee estate, and try your hand at roasting your own personal blend. Tours are available daily. Make a reservation to enjoy this delightful trip through Hawaii’s historic Kona coffee region.

Hulihe’e Palace

Be sure to stop by the historic Hulihe’e Palace in Kailua-Kona for a trip back in time. Once a summer vacation home for Island Royalty, Hulihe’e Palace is now a museum highlighting the history of the beautiful islands that make up Hawaii.

Built in 1838, the royal summer palace features an intriguing mixture of traditional Hawaiian artifacts, koa wood furniture, and Victorian pieces brought by traders to the Islands during the 1800s.

Stop by Hulihe’e Palace for a trip back in time

Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site The Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site is where you’ll discover one of the largest and last heiaus (temples) built in Hawaii. Located on the spectacular Kohala Coast just a mile south of Kawaihae Harbor, the majestic structure, built by Kamehameha the Great in 1791, was dedicated to Hawaii’s god of war as an offering to unite the warring factions on the islands.

The massive stone structure was built without any mortar using lava rocks passed by natives hand-to-hand over 25 miles and carries deep historical significance to the people of Hawaii.

The 224 by 100-foot structure has been carefully preserved as a heritage site. Need directions or information about this historical attraction? Information is available by calling (808) 882-7218.

Puako Petroglyph Archeological Preserve

The Puako Petroglyph Archeological Preserve features more than 1,000 kii pohaku – ancient lava rock carvings – and makes up one of the largest petroglyph fields in all of Hawaii.

Native Hawaiians carved these images of humans, animals, boats, and events in ancient Hawaiian history over millennia, creating a glimpse into the past of this island paradise.

An Ancient Petroglyph in Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve

There’s Always Something to Do in Hawaii Whether strolling the back streets, hiking through beautiful, natural scenery, or improving the quality of life for you and your loved ones, there’s always something to do in Hawaii.

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